Gulf Blue
General Information
The hex color #02165B, also referred to as Gulf Blue, is a deep, dark shade of blue. It resides in the blue color family and possesses a strong, authoritative presence. In the RGB color model, it is composed of 0.78% red, 8.63% green, and 35.69% blue. This color is frequently associated with sophistication, stability, and trust. Gulf Blue is often used in corporate branding and website design to convey a sense of reliability and professionalism. Its hexadecimal value makes it easily translatable across digital platforms, ensuring consistent color representation in various applications. This color is best used as an accent or for backgrounds where contrast is carefully considered.
The hex color #02165B, also known as Gulf Blue, presents significant accessibility challenges, especially in text applications. Its very dark hue results in extremely low contrast against standard light backgrounds like white or pale yellow. According to WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines), sufficient contrast is crucial for readability and usability, particularly for users with visual impairments. To ensure accessibility, it is strongly recommended to pair #02165B with very light colors, such as #FFFFFF (white) or #FAF9F6 (off-white), as background colors. Using contrast checking tools is essential to verify that the combination meets the minimum contrast ratio of 4.5:1 for normal text and 3:1 for large text to comply with WCAG standards. Avoid using this color for important textual information without adequate contrast to provide an inclusive and user-friendly experience.
Shades
Digital Color Formats
Alternative colors
- #29468c
A lighter shade of blue that provides better contrast on light backgrounds while maintaining a similar aesthetic.
- #d3d3d3
A neutral gray that can be used as a background color to complement Gulf Blue, offering better readability.
- #4169e1
A lighter blue similar to the original, but with more brightness, this is a good option for UI elements.
Applications
Web Design
In web design, #02165B can be used to create a sophisticated and professional look. It's best suited for headers, navigation bars, or as an accent color in a minimalist design. To ensure readability, pair it with a light background and white or very light-colored text. The color evokes feelings of trust and stability, making it suitable for websites of financial institutions, law firms, or technology companies. For interactive elements like buttons or links, consider using a lighter shade of blue or a contrasting color to improve visibility and user experience.
Fashion Design
#02165B can be used to create striking and memorable fashion pieces. A dark blue dress or suit can be paired with gold or silver accessories for a luxurious look. As an accent color, it can be used for shoes, bags, or belts to add a touch of sophistication to an outfit. This color is best suited for evening wear or formal occasions, but it can also be incorporated into everyday wear through accessories or smaller garments.
Branding
#02165B is a great color for brands that want to communicate trustworthiness and stability. It is a great choice for logos, websites, and marketing materials. When creating a brand identity using this color, make sure to consider the psychological impact of the color on your target audience. The color can be used as an accent color to evoke feelings of trust and professionalism. It is best suited for businesses in the financial, legal, or technology industries.